Jonathan Bead
Erling Haaland’s Fitness Leaves Manchester City in Dilemma Ahead of Liverpool Clash
Manchester City is in double trouble ahead of the Premier League game against Liverpool on Saturday. While they’re set to miss Phil Foden, who’s out for up to three weeks after appendix surgery, Pep Guardiola may have to take a gamble on striker Erling Haaland’s fitness, who scored his sixth hat-trick of the season in their last game against Burnley.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Haaland’s fitness, Guardiola is optimistic but cautious, saying, “Life is risks, and sometimes you have to take it. The doctors and especially the player will see how he feels.” The Norwegian forward joined City from Borussia Dortmund for £51m in June and has already scored 42 goals in 37 games this season, including 28 in Premier League fixtures.
City is currently eight points behind Premier League toppers Arsenal with a game in hand, and with the crucial Champions League quarter-final first leg against the German champions Bayern Munich on 11th April, Guardiola has a lot to worry about. Liverpool, who have struggled in the league, remain a top team in Guardiola’s opinion, and he acknowledges their capability of beating anyone, including City.
However, he’s still determined to fight for all three trophies and emulate Manchester United’s Treble and Champions League win in 1999. With a grueling schedule ahead, Guardiola is focused on the present and still cherishes the fact that his team is fighting in all competitions.
With so much at stake, the pressure is high for City, and fans, players and the coaching staff alike hope for the best possible outcome.
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